When the days grow warmer and you crave something light, crisp, and bursting with natural flavor, a Cucumber Tomato Salad is the perfect choice. This dish has been a summertime staple for generations, combining the juiciness of ripe tomatoes with the cool crunch of cucumbers. It’s simple enough to whip up in minutes, yet elegant enough to serve at picnics, family gatherings, or alongside grilled meats. The beauty of this salad lies in its versatility—you can keep it minimal with just a few ingredients or dress it up with fresh herbs and tangy vinaigrettes. Let’s explore how to make this refreshing classic and why it deserves a permanent place in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredient list for cucumber tomato salad is short, but each component plays an important role in building the flavor profile. Here’s what you’ll need:
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2 medium cucumbers (preferably English or Persian cucumbers for fewer seeds and tender skin)
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3–4 ripe tomatoes (Roma, cherry, or vine-ripened all work well)
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½ small red onion (adds sharpness and contrast)
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2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin is best for flavor)
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1 tablespoon red wine vinegar (or lemon juice for brightness)
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Salt and black pepper (to taste)
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2 tablespoons fresh herbs (parsley, dill, or basil are excellent choices)
Optional additions: crumbled feta cheese, sliced olives, or avocado for a richer variation.
Step-by-Step Preparation
Step 1: Slice the Vegetables
Wash your cucumbers and tomatoes thoroughly. Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds or half-moons, depending on your preference. For tomatoes, cut them into wedges if using larger varieties, or halve them if you’re working with cherry or grape tomatoes. Slice the red onion thinly into half-rings to keep the flavor balanced and not overpowering.
Step 2: Mix the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar (or lemon juice), a pinch of salt, and freshly ground black pepper. This simple vinaigrette enhances the natural sweetness of the tomatoes and complements the cucumbers without overwhelming them.
Step 3: Toss Everything Together
Place the cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions into a large salad bowl. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss gently to combine. You want the dressing to coat the ingredients evenly without breaking down the delicate tomatoes.
Step 4: Add Fresh Herbs
Chop your chosen herbs—parsley for freshness, dill for a slightly tangy note, or basil for a sweet Italian flair. Sprinkle them over the salad and give it one final toss.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
For the best flavor, allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for about 20–30 minutes before serving. This gives the ingredients time to marinate and meld together. Serve cold for maximum refreshment.
Tips for the Best Cucumber Tomato Salad
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Choose fresh, ripe produce: Since this salad relies on just a few ingredients, quality matters. Select firm cucumbers and juicy, sun-ripened tomatoes for the best taste.
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Balance the acidity: Red wine vinegar provides tang, but you can also experiment with balsamic vinegar for sweetness or apple cider vinegar for a sharper note.
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Add creaminess if desired: A sprinkle of feta cheese or cubes of mozzarella can elevate the dish into something heartier.
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Make it ahead of time: This salad tastes even better after a short marinating period, but avoid making it too far in advance as tomatoes can become mushy.
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Keep it chilled: Serving the salad cold enhances its refreshing qualities, making it perfect for summer meals.
Variations to Try
One of the joys of cucumber tomato salad is how easily it adapts to different cuisines and tastes. Here are a few creative twists you can explore:
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Mediterranean Style: Add kalamata olives, feta cheese, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
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Creamy Dressing: Instead of a vinaigrette, toss the salad with Greek yogurt mixed with garlic, lemon juice, and dill.
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Avocado Boost: Add diced avocado for extra creaminess and healthy fats.
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Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in some chili flakes or add thinly sliced jalapeños for heat.
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Grain Bowl Version: Mix the salad with quinoa or couscous for a more filling side dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cucumber tomato salad is not only quick and easy to prepare, but it’s also incredibly nutritious. Cucumbers are hydrating and low in calories, while tomatoes provide a healthy dose of vitamin C and antioxidants like lycopene. The olive oil adds healthy fats, making this a balanced, wholesome dish.
It’s also a highly versatile recipe—you can serve it as a side dish to grilled chicken, steak, or fish, or enjoy it on its own as a light lunch. It complements barbecue menus beautifully and can even be stuffed into pita bread for a refreshing twist.
Final Thoughts
In just a few minutes and with a handful of fresh ingredients, you can prepare a dish that is crisp, colorful, and packed with flavor. This Cucumber Tomato Salad highlights the beauty of simplicity in cooking—no complex steps, no heavy sauces, just fresh vegetables, a light dressing, and the magic of herbs. Whether you’re hosting a backyard cookout, preparing a weekday dinner, or simply craving something refreshing, this salad will always deliver. Keep it classic or customize it with your favorite additions; either way, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.
